Celebrating National Farmers Market Week

Cultivated land, or as it is commonly called, “farm land," was an important factor in early community growth. As communities grew and agricultural workforce overflowed, the food system was able to support more people than needed to work the land and other forms of commerce developed. Still, today, our cities thrive on a food system that is able to support more individuals than it takes to create. A vital part of the food system support is our local farmers. They labor on the land producing fruits and vegetables and raising livestock. “Michigan’s food and agriculture system is a large portion of this state’s workforce. . . account[ing] for about 22 percent of the state’s employment.” (MDARD) To honor hard working farmers, Secretary Tom Vilsack of the Department of Agriculture has named the week of August 7th - 13th National Farmers Market Week. "Farmers markets are an important part of strong local and regional food systems that connect farmers with new customers and grow rural economies,” Vilsack said.

Farmers markets can be found universally. This illustrates the importance of local food to communities around the globe. They are a designated spot where farmers and other food creators and artisans are able to sell their products directly to the consumer. We have several farmers markets in our community that give us an opportunity to interact with local farmers and connect to the foods we eat. "These types of markets improve earning potential for farmers and ranchers, building stronger community ties and access to local foods," said Elanor Starmer, the Administrator of USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service.  

During National Farmers Market week, let’s celebrate our small farmers and the work they do in supporting the local food movement. “Michigan grows over 300 different commodities, 2nd in the nation only behind California." (MDARD Twitter Account). Due to our unique geography and climate we are able to enjoy diversity of both fruits and vegetables of many varieties, leading the way in tart cherry production, pickling cucumbers, Niagra grapes, and several varieties of dried beans just to name a few (michiganagriculture.com). This diversity shows up in our markets as a full selection of items to keep our dinner plates interesting and bountiful throughout the year.  

Many times when we see images from farms they show the bigger picture such as the machinery, barns and fields. However, many tasks on the farm require the simple earnest, often earth-caked, hands of the farmer. From sowing the seeds to harvesting the crops, our farmers work tirelessly creating wholesome and substantial products. The Grand Rapids region is blessed to have a robust selection of fruit, vegetables and meat which show up at our local market. The fresh food options are excellent and our farmers are outstanding (in their field)!

Let's take this time, time that has been intentionally set apart, to thank our local farmers and food creators for their life-giving service to our community. For National Farmers Market Week, the Fulton Street Farmers Market will showcase ways to thank and celebrate our farmers. Join us by participating in a Facebook selfie competition, “freezer jam” cooking demo, book signing, and a live-print Fulton Street Farmers Market logo T-shirt event! Also, keep an eye out for some special recipes from our very own vendors and fun Farmers Market pictures. While this is a great time to “Thank” a farmer, you can say “thank you” any time and every time. It’s important to honor the individuals who work so hard to provide our local community with such a wealth of nourishment.

National Farmers Market Week is a time to connect with the local agricultural community and show appreciation for their gifts. So, let’s all come together with a resounding THANK YOU!